If properly cared for, a lawn mower engine should last through numerous mowing seasons without issue. One of the most crucial steps in lawn mower engine care is performing regular oil changes and getting the nuances right. You want to choose the right oil for your mower, and part of that is knowing the difference between detergent and non-detergent motor oil. You should go with the former for your lawn mower, since the consequences of using non-detergent could be serious. Overall, the presence of detergent is an important element to consider when buying lawn mower motor oil.